1 August 2019, by: Grant de Smidt

PSL PLAYER OF THE SEASON CONTENDERS

The PSL finally kicks off this weekend and BET Central has previewed each match, the league title race, big clubs as well as the PSL new boys.

Now Grant de Smidt looks at some of the players who could be the Absa Premeriship Player of the Season.

After arriving from Bidvest Wits before last season, Pule had a strong but inconsistent first campaign at Pirates. A run of five goals in seven matches in August and October saw five wins for Bucs in those games, but by late April he was on a run of just two goals in his prior 24 appearances.

He ended the season strongly though and was superb in the Carling Black Label Cup last week. With a Bafana Bafana AFCON snub to motivate him, he could be ready to explode for Pirates.

The utility player had a breakout season last time out, excelling in several positions including left-back, as a winger on both flanks and a new role in the centre of the park. Mamelodi Sundowns were very keen to bring him on board during this transfer window, but SuperSport United refused to sell locally.

After his display against Sundowns last December, Pitso Mosimane said: “Aubrey Modiba is an unbelievable player”. With 11 assists last season and a powerful shot from long-range, he could have another big season and attract interest from European clubs.

South Africa’s number one goalkeeper missed the final 16 PSL matches of last season as he watched his replacements make costly errors. He is fit to return now and could even feature against Highlands Park in the opening match.

In his limited appearances last season he managed to keep six clean sheets in 13 PSL games and save a penalty in the Soweto derby. His presence and leadership will be crucial to Chiefs and to Ernst Middendorp’s chances of succeeding as Amakhosi coach.

The Uruguayan playmaker had an excellent season last time out, but most of his best performances were reserved for cup competitions. He picked up a total of 21 assists in all competitions, but only eight came in the PSL.

This season, with countryman Mauricio Affonso to link-up within the attack, Sirino could increase those goal creation numbers into double figures in the league and push Sundowns towards a third-straight PSL title.

Having just turned 29, now is the time for Erasmus to finally hit some big goalscoring numbers in the PSL. Cape Town City are a very attacking team and he has had six months to settle into the club and regain match fitness after inactivity at European clubs.

He played only 730 minutes for City last season but scored three goals, including against Bidvest Wits and in each of his games against Mamelodi Sundowns. With former Orlando Pirates teammate Mpho Makola to service him, he could lead a title challenge for Benni McCarthy’s men.

The forward had a fantastic second half of last season, scoring five goals in his 11 appearances on loan at SuperSport United. They were very keen to make his move permanent, but Bidvest Wits have recalled him for the season ahead.

With Lehlohonolo Majoro and Gabadinho Mhango moving on, Macuphu should be the frontline striker and with numerous excellent crosses of the ball to feed off, expect him to push for double scoring figures in the PSL.

Stuart Baxter called him up to the Bafana Bafana squad for last September’s AFCON qualifier against Libya, and with the country’s scoring problems in Egypt recently, perhaps more international involvement could come his way next season.

Read our PSL Matchday 1 Betting Preview here.

Read our PSL Season Predictions here.

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